In order to efficiently design complex microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) having large numbers of multi-domain components, a hierarchically structured design approach that is compatible with standard IC design is needed. A graphical-based schematic, or structural, view is presented as a geometrically intuitive way to represent MEMS as a set of interconnected lumpedparameter elements. An initial library focuses on suspended-MEMS technology from which inertial sensors and other mechanical mechanisms can be designed. The schematic representation has a simulation interface enabling the designer to simulate the design at the component level. Synthesis of MEMS cells for common topologies provides the system designer with rapid, optimized component layout and associated macro-models. A synthesis module is developed for the popular folded-flexure micromechanical resonator topology. The algorithm minimizes a combination of total layout area and voltage applied to the electromechanical actuators. Synthesis results clearly show the design limits of behavioral parameters such as resonant frequency for a fixed process technology.

We are developing physical design tools for surfacemicromachined MEMS, such as polysilicon microstructures built using MCNC’s Multi-User MEMS Process service. Our initial efforts include automation of layout synthesis and behavioral simulation from a MEMS schematic representation. As an example, layout synthesis of a folded-flexure electrostatic combdrive microresonator is demonstrated. Lumpedparameter electromechanical models with two mechanical degrees-of-freedom link the physical and behavioral parameters of the microresonator. Simulated annealing is used to generate global optimized layouts of five different resonators from 3 kHz to 300 kHz starting with mixed-domain behavioral specifications and constraints. Development of the synthesis tool enforces codification of all relevant MEMS design variables and constraints. The synthesis approach allows a rapid exploration of MEMS design issues. 1.

Computer-aided design tools tailored for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are needed to enable design of complex systems with multiple energy domains. In an analogy to the VLSI design methodology, physical, structural, and behavioral views of MEMS can be formed and coupled together in an integrated toolset. Of key importance is the formation of parameterized MEMS component libraries to support these views. Fast coupled-domain numerical (physical) simulation and behavioral simulation are required to move freely between the views. 1.